Olanike Nafisat Balogun makes history as she becomes Nigeria customs 1st female pilot

The Nigeria Customs Service has made history by announcing the first female pilot, Deputy Superintendent of Customs Olanike Nafisat Balogun.

This achievement is a significant milestone in the aviation history of the service.

Abdullahi Maiwada, the Customs’ National Public Relations Officer, praised Balogun, a customs assistant from Odo-Otin, Osun State, for her inspiring career path.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reached a significant milestone with the appointment of Deputy Superintendent of Customs (Pilot) Olanike Nafisat Balogun, marking her as the first female pilot in the organization’s history.

This achievement represents a pivotal moment in the aviation sector of the service.

As stated by Abdullahi Maiwada, the National Public Relations Officer of Customs, Balogun originates from Odo-Otin Local Government Area in Osun State, although she was born in Kaduna. She began her career with the NCS in 2002 as a customs assistant and has since forged an inspiring professional journey.

Starting her career as a cabin crew member in the air wing unit, Balogun’s ambition and resolve propelled her to pursue a pilot’s career. In reflecting on her experiences, she shared the obstacles she encountered and her choice to prioritize public service over potentially more lucrative positions in the private aviation industry.

“It was a tough decision, but my goal was to contribute to public service and achieve my dream of becoming a pilot,” she said.

Balogun’s qualifications include an advanced diploma in Air Ticketing and Cabin Services, a master’s degree in Public Administration from Ahmadu Bello University, and her pilot certification from the Flying Academy in Miami, Florida, which was sponsored by the NCS.

She expressed that her achievements serve as a source of inspiration for women both within the customs service and beyond. “Becoming the first female pilot in the NCS Airwing reflects my commitment to advancing both my dreams and the operational capabilities of the NCS,” she stated, urging young Nigerians, particularly women, to pursue their ambitions with tenacity.